The Vestibular Disorders Association (VeDA), in partnership with the American Neurotology Society (ANS), is proud to announce the recipient of the 2026 ANS/VeDA Clinical Outcomes Research Grant (ANS/VeDACOR). This $25,000 award—jointly funded by VeDA and ANS—supports innovative research that has the potential to improve clinical care, diagnosis, and outcomes for people living with vestibular disorders.
This year’s grant has been awarded to Jumah G. Ahmad, MD, a Neurotology Fellow at the University of Utah, for his project titled:
“Assessing Vestibular Dysfunction in Older Cochlear Implant Patients and Identifying High-Risk Candidates.”
Advancing Care for a Growing Patient Population
Cochlear implantation has transformed the lives of people with hearing loss, and its use continues to expand—particularly among older adults. However, as the population of cochlear implant recipients grows, so does the need to better understand and manage potential side effects, including vestibular dysfunction.
Balance impairment and dizziness are common concerns following cochlear implantation, especially in older adults who may already be at increased risk for falls. Yet, clinicians still lack clear tools to predict which patients are most vulnerable to these complications.
Dr. Ahmad’s research directly addresses this gap.
His study will examine how cochlear implantation affects balance and vestibular function in adults aged 65 and older, with the goal of identifying which patients are at highest risk for postoperative complications.
A Novel, Multidimensional Approach
What sets this project apart is its comprehensive and innovative methodology. Rather than relying on a single measure, Dr. Ahmad’s study integrates three key approaches:
- Patient-reported outcomes, such as dizziness severity using validated tools like the Dizziness Handicap Index (DHI)
- Objective vestibular testing, including measures of otolith function through VEMP testing
- Real-world functional mobility assessment, using wearable motion sensors to track head and trunk stability during walking
This combination allows researchers to capture both how patients feel and how they function in daily life—an important distinction, as prior studies suggest that subjective symptoms and objective findings do not always align.
By analyzing these data together, the study aims to detect subtle changes in balance that may otherwise go unnoticed—and to better understand their clinical significance.
Identifying Risk—Before It Becomes Harm
A central goal of the project is to identify predictors of early postoperative vestibular dysfunction.
Dr. Ahmad and his team hypothesize that some patients will experience measurable declines in balance and stability within the first month after surgery—a critical window that has not been well characterized in previous research.
The study will also explore whether certain surgical factors—such as the type of cochlear implant electrode used—may influence vestibular outcomes.
Ultimately, this work could enable clinicians to:
- Identify high-risk patients before surgery
- Tailor surgical decision-making and device selection
- Provide more targeted counseling and follow-up care
- Reduce fall risk and improve recovery outcomes
For patients and families, this translates into safer procedures, better-informed decisions, and improved quality of life.
Bridging Research and Real-World Impact
One of the defining features of the ANS/VeDA Clinical Outcomes Research Grant is its emphasis on research that directly impacts patient care. Dr. Ahmad’s project exemplifies this mission.
By focusing on clinically meaningful outcomes—such as balance, mobility, and fall risk—this study moves beyond laboratory findings to address real-world challenges faced by patients.
It also highlights the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration. The research team includes experts in neurotology, physical therapy, and biostatistics, working together to develop new ways to measure and interpret vestibular function.
This collaborative approach reflects the broader direction of vestibular care, where integrated, team-based models are increasingly essential for improving outcomes.
Building the Future of Vestibular Research
For Dr. Ahmad, this project represents an important step in a growing career dedicated to advancing outcomes in patients with hearing and balance disorders.
Currently completing his fellowship at the University of Utah, he plans to continue this work as faculty at Duke University, where he will expand the study into a multi-institutional research effort.
The data generated through this grant will lay the foundation for larger studies and future funding, helping to build a sustainable research network focused on vestibular outcomes in cochlear implant patients.
Why This Matters to the Vestibular Community
Vestibular disorders are often invisible, complex, and underdiagnosed. For many patients, symptoms like dizziness and imbalance can significantly impact independence, mobility, and overall quality of life.
Research like Dr. Ahmad’s helps bring these challenges into clearer focus—and moves the field closer to solutions.
By identifying who is most at risk and why, this work has the potential to improve not only surgical outcomes but also long-term care strategies for a vulnerable and growing patient population.
A Shared Commitment to Progress
The ANS/VeDA Clinical Outcomes Research Grant reflects a shared commitment between clinicians and patient advocates to advance meaningful, patient-centered research.
Through this partnership, VeDA and ANS are investing in projects that address real clinical gaps, support emerging investigators, and ultimately improve the lives of people living with vestibular disorders.
We are proud to support Dr. Ahmad’s work and look forward to the impact it will have on patients, providers, and the future of vestibular care.
Congratulations to Dr. Jumah G. Ahmad, the 2026 ANS/VeDA Clinical Outcomes Research Grant recipient.
